No signal at a roadside inspection: what to do with the DeCA.
At a roadside inspection the driver doesn't need a connection: they carry the PDF downloaded or printed. The one who downloads it is the inspector.
How it works at a roadside inspection
- Before setting offThe document is generated and reaches the driver, by WhatsApp or on paper. The QR code is what matters.
- At the checkThe driver shows the PDF or just the QR code, and the inspector scans it and downloads the document with their device.
- If it can't be done there and thenThe Resolution requires the URL to remain available for at least seven days after the service.
And if something changes en route
If the trailer or destination changes en route, a new document is generated with the corrected data and the reason for the change, and it's sent to the driver. The previous one is kept. Handwritten notes on a printed copy are not valid.
FAQ
What if there's no signal at the check?
The driver doesn't need a connection: they carry the PDF downloaded or printed. The one who downloads it is the inspector, with their own device. If they can't do it at that moment, the Resolution requires the URL to remain available for at least seven days after the service.
What if the trailer or destination changes en route?
A new document is generated with the corrected data and the reason for the change, and it's sent to the driver. The previous one is kept. Handwritten notes on a printed copy are not valid.
Is my PDF delivery note sent by WhatsApp already valid?
Only if it's a digitally generated PDF with the QR code printed on it, and that QR code leads to an address where the PDF downloads directly. A photo or scan of the delivery note is not valid.
How long must it be kept?
At least one year. Nothing is deleted in DeCA: documents stay in the repository and can be viewed and downloaded.
More about the DeCA
- What the control document isWhat changes from 5 October 2026 and what it must contain
- Control document for vansWhen vehicles of up to 3.5 tonnes need it
- Control document or CMRWhich one for domestic transport and which for international
- Own-account transportWhen your own fleet doesn't need a DeCA
- DeCA example in PDFA sample control document, field by field
- Cabotage in SpainThe control document on cabotage operations
- ShippersWhoever hires the transport and is liable for the DeCA
- Integration with your softwareArigest, Agrocom, GAP, Gesthorm and API
- PricePay per document or flat rate
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